Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds: The Easiest Summer Dessert You’ll Ever Bake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s stunning, seasonal, and doesn’t require any baking skills, then this dump cake with apricots and almonds is your new go-to. It’s the ultimate no-fuss dessert — just layer, bake, and serve. No mixing bowls. No fancy techniques. And no stress.

Apricots bring a bright, tangy-sweet flavor, while sliced almonds add the perfect crunch to balance the soft, buttery cake layers. Whether you’re baking for a cookout, a summer brunch, or just a lazy weekend, this dump cake with apricots and almonds hits all the right notes: fruity, nutty, and irresistibly simple.

Don’t miss our Puff Pastry with Strawberries if you’re in the mood for another beautiful fruit-forward treat.

What Is a Dump Cake? Why It’s So Easy

History of the Dump Cake Concept

The term “dump cake” might not sound glamorous, but the idea has been around for decades — and it’s pure genius. Originating from vintage American church cookbooks, the dump cake became a staple for home cooks who wanted a homemade dessert with zero effort.

Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no mixing involved. You literally dump all the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the magic.

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Why Dump Cakes Are Perfect for Beginner Bakers

Whether you’re short on time, tools, or energy, a dump cake delivers:

• No stand mixer needed
• No frosting or decorating
• No precise measuring beyond a box and a can

If you can open a can, scatter a topping, and turn on your oven, you can make this dump cake with apricots and almonds without breaking a sweat.

Why Apricots and Almonds Are the Ultimate Pairing

Sweet-Tart Apricots Meet Crunchy Almonds

Apricots are an underrated fruit in the dessert world. When baked, they become warm, jammy, and just sweet enough without overpowering the dish. Their tanginess makes them the perfect contrast to buttery cake and crunchy almonds.

Almonds, whether sliced or chopped, toast up beautifully in the oven and add both texture and flavor depth. Together, these two create a flavor duo that’s both nostalgic and elevated.

Nutrition and Seasonal Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are not just delicious — they’re also:

• High in vitamin A and C
• Rich in fiber and antioxidants
• Naturally low in sugar

Fresh apricots are best in summer, but don’t worry — canned apricots work perfectly for this dump cake with apricots and almonds, and you can make it any time of year.

Ingredients Needed for Apricot Almond Dump Cake

Fresh vs. Canned Apricots: What Works Best?

When making a dump cake with apricots and almonds, convenience is key — and that’s why canned apricots are often the star. They’re easy to use, require no peeling or slicing, and bake down into a juicy, golden layer that feels homemade.

That said, if apricots are in season, fresh apricots can absolutely be used — just pit and slice them, then toss lightly with sugar or honey to help release their juices during baking.

Best options for this recipe:

• Canned apricot halves in juice or light syrup (avoid heavy syrup for less sugar)
• Fresh ripe apricots (peeled optional)
• Frozen sliced apricots (defrost and drain well)

Box Cake Mix Options and Almond Variations

The “cake” in this dump cake with apricots and almonds comes from a dry box of cake mix — usually yellow, vanilla, or white. It acts like a crisp, golden topping once it bakes with the fruit juice below.

Best cake mix types:

• Classic yellow cake mix (rich and buttery)
• French vanilla (adds a hint of custard flavor)
• White cake mix (light and neutral)

Almond toppings to try:

• Sliced almonds (traditional and elegant)
• Slivered almonds (adds a bit more crunch)
• Toasted almonds (for deeper flavor)
• Chopped almonds (rustic and crunchy)

Pro tip: Add a touch of almond extract (¼ tsp) to enhance the nuttiness throughout the cake.

Full Ingredient List

Here’s everything you need for the perfect dump cake with apricots and almonds:

Ingredient	Amount
Canned apricots	2 (15 oz) cans, drained
Yellow cake mix	1 box (15.25 oz)
Butter	½ cup (1 stick), sliced thin
Sliced almonds	½ cup
Almond extract (optional)	¼ teaspoon
Optional: cinnamon, honey	To taste

Simple, pantry-friendly, and no eggs or milk required. This recipe is ideal when you want something that feels homemade but is effortless to pull together.

Step-by-Step Apricot Almond Dump Cake Recipe

Equipment You’ll Need

One of the best things about making a dump cake with apricots and almonds is that you don’t need any fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Can opener
• Small knife (for slicing butter)
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Spoon or spatula (optional for spreading)

That’s it — no mixer, no bowls, no prep stress.

Full Step-by-Step Instructions

🧁 Ingredients Recap:

• 2 cans (15 oz) apricot halves (drained)
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• ½ cup butter (cold, sliced into thin pats)
• Optional: ¼ tsp almond extract, dash of cinnamon

🥣 Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

🍑 Step 2: Add the Apricots

Dump the drained apricots evenly into the baking dish. Spread them into a single layer. If using fresh apricots, slice and lightly sweeten with a drizzle of honey.

Optional: Stir in almond extract or sprinkle a little cinnamon for extra depth.

🧁 Step 3: Sprinkle Cake Mix on Top

Open your box of dry cake mix and evenly sprinkle it across the top of the apricots. Do not stir. This dry mix will soak up juices as it bakes and form a golden topping.

Pro tip: Tap the pan gently to help the mix settle between the fruit.

🧈 Step 4: Layer the Butter

Lay thin slices of cold butter evenly across the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much surface area as possible — this helps create that crispy, buttery crust.

🌰 Step 5: Top with Almonds

Sprinkle the sliced almonds across the entire surface. They’ll toast up during baking and add the signature crunch to your dump cake with apricots and almonds.

🔥 Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.

If your almonds brown too quickly, loosely tent the cake with foil during the last 10 minutes.

🥄 Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the dump cake rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. It’s best served warm — either solo, or with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter option

Quick Recipe Summary Table

Step	Action	Time
1	Preheat oven & prep dish	5 minutes
2	Add apricots	2 minutes
3	Sprinkle cake mix	1 minute
4	Add sliced butter	2 minutes
5	Top with almonds	1 minute
6	Bake at 350°F	45–50 mins
7	Cool & serve	10–15 mins

Want more no-fuss bakes? Check out our Cloud Bread with Three Ingredients — just as simple, and gluten-free too.

Tips for a Perfect Dump Cake Every Time

Should You Stir or Not? The Dump Cake Debate

One of the biggest questions about making a dump cake with apricots and almonds is: Do you stir the ingredients or leave them as layered?

Here’s the answer: Don’t stir.

Dump cakes rely on layering. The fruit releases juices that soak into the dry cake mix while the butter melts and creates a crispy, golden crust on top. Stirring ruins this natural structure and often leads to a gummy or uneven texture.

So trust the process — layer, don’t stir, and let the oven do its thing.

How to Avoid a Soggy or Dry Center

Even though dump cakes are incredibly easy, a few common mistakes can lead to a soggy middle or dry top. Here’s how to avoid them:

Tips for Best Results

• Drain canned fruit: Excess liquid will make the bottom watery.
• Slice butter thinly and distribute evenly to ensure all areas of the cake mix are moistened.
• Don’t overload with fruit: Two 15 oz cans are just right for a 9×13 pan.
• Use the right pan: A glass or ceramic 9×13 works best for even baking.
• Rotate the pan halfway through baking for consistent browning.

If you notice dry patches of cake mix after baking, drizzle a tablespoon or two of melted butter over those spots, pop it back in the oven for 5 more minutes, and you’re good to go.

Variations to Try with Apricot and Almond

Add-ins: Coconut, Cinnamon, or Brown Butter

Want to dress up your dump cake with apricots and almonds? Here are easy flavor boosts that don’t complicate the process:

• Toasted coconut flakes: Add ¼ cup to the almond topping for a tropical twist.
• Cinnamon or cardamom: Sprinkle over the apricots for warm spice.
• Brown butter instead of regular: Melt and brown your butter before pouring over the top for a deeper, nutty flavor.

You can also mix a bit of lemon zest into the apricots for brightness.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives

This dessert is incredibly easy to adapt for different dietary needs.

🍰 Gluten-Free

• Use a certified gluten-free cake mix
• All other ingredients (fruit, butter, nuts) are naturally gluten-free

🌱 Vegan

• Use a vegan cake mix (check for milk powder or eggs)
• Swap butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil

These swaps still deliver all the flavor and texture of the original dump cake with apricots and almonds, while making it more inclusive for all diets.

Craving more fun recipe hacks? Discover how we turned simple ingredients into Dubai Chocolate Cookies — a viral sensation with big flavor.

Serving Ideas and Toppings

Best Ways to Serve Dump Cake Warm or Cold

A dump cake with apricots and almonds is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re making it for a casual backyard BBQ or a cozy brunch, this dessert delivers — warm or chilled.

🥵 Serve It Warm:

• Right out of the oven (after resting for 10–15 mins)
• The fruit is gooey, the topping is crisp, and the flavors meld beautifully
• Perfect for scooping and spooning into bowls

🧊 Serve It Cold:

• Chill it for a few hours for a firmer, sliceable cake
• The flavors concentrate and become richer
• Excellent for make-ahead entertaining

Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Apricot Almond Dump Cake

Want to take your dump cake with apricots and almonds from good to “Can I get the recipe?” Here are topping ideas that add flair without much effort:

🍨 Classic Dessert Pairings:

• Vanilla ice cream: melts perfectly into the warm cake
• Fresh whipped cream: light and fluffy contrast to the dense cake
• Greek yogurt: for a tangy, healthier twist

🌿 Flavor Boosters:

• Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
• A sprinkle of sea salt flakes for sweet-salty balance
• Dusting of powdered sugar before serving
• Garnish with fresh mint or thin apricot slices for a fresh touch

☕ Best Drinks to Serve With:

• Hot coffee or espresso
• Chilled matcha or black iced tea
• Dessert wine or Moscato for a fancier pairing

Whether you go simple or dressed-up, this dump cake with apricots and almonds is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks like you spent hours — when you barely spent 15 minutes.

Don’t miss our Raspberry Matcha Tea — it’s a refreshing, antioxidant-rich sip that pairs perfectly with fruity baked desserts.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Fridge vs Freezer Storage Tips

The beauty of a dump cake with apricots and almonds is that it stores incredibly well — making it perfect for make-ahead desserts, late-night leftovers, or quick snacks the next day.

🧊 In the Fridge:

• Let the cake cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.

❄️ In the Freezer:

• Freeze in portions to avoid waste.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Best used within 2 months.

Pro Tip: Label the container with the freeze date so you don’t forget when you made it!

How to Reheat While Keeping the Crunch

Nobody wants a soggy dump cake. Here’s how to reheat your dump cake with apricots and almonds while maintaining its signature texture:

Method	How to Do It	Time
Oven	325°F covered with foil, 10 mins	Best texture
Air Fryer	350°F for 5–6 mins (single slice)	Super crispy
Microwave	30–45 seconds (softens crust)	Quickest

For best results, use the oven or air fryer to bring back that crisp almond topping while warming the fruit beneath.

Apricot Almond Dump Cake vs Traditional Cobblers

What Makes Dump Cake Simpler and Faster

While cobblers, crisps, and crumbles all have their place, the dump cake with apricots and almonds wins for sheer simplicity.

Here’s the key difference:

Feature	Dump Cake	Traditional Cobbler
Prep Time	Under 10 minutes	30+ minutes
Tools Needed	Just a pan	Bowl, pastry tools
Skill Level	Beginner-friendly	Intermediate
Crust Style	Cake mix topping (crisp)	Biscuit or batter-like topping
Fruit Used	Canned or fresh apricots	Often fresh + thickened

Dump cakes are all about convenience and accessibility. No dough to knead, no topping to mix — just open, layer, and bake.

Texture, Taste, and Prep Comparison

While cobblers often feature more traditional pastry elements, the dump cake offers a more cake-like crust with extra crunch from the almonds.

• Texture: Crumbly, crisp, and gooey in one bite
• Flavor: Sweet, slightly tart, and buttery
• Effort: Minimal. Honestly, your oven does all the heavy lifting.

So if you’re craving comfort food that delivers results with barely any cleanup, this dump cake with apricots and almonds is the dessert for you.

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